Magical wedding venues fit for a prince and princess
Looking for a grand wedding venue? We’ve picked the best castles and stately homes in the East of England
Meghan Markle has a lot to answer for…not only has she influenced women’s fashion but since saying “I do” to Prince Harry, the Markle sparkle has had a major impact on the wedding industry. From dresses and flowers to ceremonies and venues, brides-to-be want to feel like royalty, and why not, it’s your wedding day after all.
If you’re dreaming of marrying your own prince charming in a royal fairytale setting this year, we’ve selected the most beautiful venues in the region fit for a princess.
Mannington Hall, Norfolk
If you’re looking for a gorgeous backdrop to your wedding, look no further than Mannington Hall. Owned by Lord and Lady Walpole, the hall and gardens offer the perfect surroundings for a beautiful wedding. Both large and small parties are catered for, and couples can choose from a marquee or the rose tearooms for their reception. www.manningtongardens.co.uk
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Hertford Castle, Hertfordshire
It doesn’t need to cost a fortune to have a royal wedding. If you want a regal venue without the price tag opt for the beautiful Grade I listed, mid-15th century Hertford Castle. The venue offers a variety of packages to suit all budgets and even allows guests to supply their own alcohol to save on costs. www.hertfordcastle.co.uk
Hengrave Hall, Suffolk
If you have as many friends as the Duke and Duchess, the impressive Tudor mansion accommodates wedding parties of up to 140 guests. Built in 1525, the property boasts an idyllic chapel, banqueting hall, gallery, library, courtyard and more. Its grand halls and chambers will have you feeling like a queen. It also has 27 bedrooms on-site so your guests are well looked after too! www.hengravehall.com
Hylands Estate, Essex
Grand, beautiful and surrounded by landscaped parkland, Hylands Estate is perfect for adding a touch of regal elegance to your big day. The interiors are lavishly designed with a neo baroque style with French marble fireplace and floor to ceiling windows. Brides can make a grand entrance on a horse drawn carriage along the sweeping driveway.
Michelle Marwood, assistant manager of the wedding venue, said: “Whilst we see a wide range of couples and ceremonies at Hylands Estate, ever since Meghan and Harry tied the knot, we have noticed that couples have become more empowered to break with tradition. Taking inspiration from Meghan walking herself down the aisle, we are now meeting with brides-to-be who want to do their own thing, and are talking about their mum, sister or friends walking them down the aisle.” www.hylandsestateweddings.co.uk.
Wares Priory, Hertfordshire
Period features are great for adding a royal vibe to your big day, and the architecture at Wares Priory will have you falling in love all over again. The Priory Hall features gothic stone arches, stained glass windows and has the remnants of a Victorian Trompe-l’oeil. Brides can make a grand entrance through a gorgeous Jacobean front door. For a more intimate ceremony, couples can get married at the Hadsley Room, which features late-medieval roof beams and crown post roof. The room includes a 14th century refectory table, which is believed to be a survivor from the original friary. www.warepriory.co.uk/weddings
Hedingham Castle, Essex
What could be more romantic than getting married in your very own castle? The interiors are as grand and historic as you can imagine and the surrounding gardens and water features make for a magical back drop. www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk
